Credov's researched list of the 6 faults the Subaru BRZ STI Sport is known for (2012–2021), 5 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
What to look for: With the engine fully warm, listen at idle and blipping to 3,000 rpm for a deep bottom-end knock.
Why it matters: This engine can fail with little warning, and the usual fix is a full engine replacement costing thousands; a clean idle, a healthy oil level and a clear service history are worth confirming rather than relying on how the car currently sounds.
What to look for: Wipe the dipstick on white paper, checking for any rubbery grey, black or orange sealant debris.
Why it matters: This fault can destroy the engine with little or no warning, often on a very low-kilometre car, and the fix ranges from a sump clean to a full engine replacement; checking for sealant debris and a clean idle is cheap insurance on a car this new.
What to look for: Warm the engine, idle and rev to 3,000 rpm while listening low near the sump for a knock.
Why it matters: A spun rod bearing on this engine can happen with no warning and the usual fix is a full engine replacement costing well into the thousands, so a clean idle, healthy oil and a documented service history matter more on this model than most.
What to look for: Let the engine idle fully warm with the air con cycling, watching for the revs hunting or dipping.
Why it matters: A stall at idle or at lights is a real driving hazard as well as a sign of a known fault on early cars; it is worth letting the engine idle warm for a few minutes before you buy rather than only taking a short test drive.
What to look for: From cold, shift through every gear and reverse, including a quicker 2nd-to-3rd shift, listening for a crunch.
Why it matters: Grinding or a block going into gear points to worn synchros on a gearbox that some owners have had fully replaced; a quiet, clean shift through every gear cold and warm is worth confirming before buying.
What to look for: Check the driver's seat outer bolster for flattening, fraying, cracks or tears, compared with the passenger seat.
Why it matters: A bolster worn well beyond the rest of the car's trim is a simple, free check that can expose an odometer or history claim that does not match how hard the car has really been used.
Got a question about a Subaru BRZ STI Sport? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.